There’s something about a summer escape with friends that instantly shifts your mood, and a recent girl’s weekend itinerary in South Haven, Michigan, proved to be exactly what I needed. The moment you pull away from your driveway and head toward a small lakeshore town, you can almost feel your shoulders drop and your pace slow.
Earlier this month, I spent a long weekend in South Haven, Michigan, with my blogger friends Andrea, Kathrine, and Laura. Caroline couldn’t make it this time (we missed her!), but the rest of us were ready for a few days of lake views, good food, and plenty of laughs.
Where We Stayed for Our South Haven Girls Trip
Andrea found us the perfect Airbnb just a block off the downtown area. With five bedrooms, we each had our own space, which, if you’ve ever traveled with a group, you know is a luxury. The house had a charming backyard complete with string lights, a cozy sofa, and even a hot tub.
Everyone arrived Thursday evening, but I was traveling for work that week and couldn’t get there until Friday morning. When I walked in, I was greeted not only by hugs but also by Laura’s homemade rhubarb coffee cake and Andrea’s yogurt and berry parfait waiting for me. Nothing says welcome like a homemade breakfast.
First Day of Our South Haven Girls Weekend
After I unpacked and got settled, we walked the short distance into town for some shopping. We found the cutest matching pajamas, because no girls’ trip is complete without at least one coordinated outfit moment, and then headed to lunch at Taste.
Their menu is all small plates, which is my favorite way to eat. I ordered a BLT martini made with house-made bacon vodka, Bloody Mary mix, lettuce, bacon, and an olive. I always crave a Bloody Mary, take a few sips, and then remember I don’t actually want a full one. This martini version was just the right size, and delicious.
That evening, we checked out The Groovin’ Grove, a bar with an old-school, mid-century modern lounge vibe that felt like stepping back in time. They have live music nightly, and we were lucky to hear Shelby Lentz perform. Her voice was incredible, the kind of sound that fills a room and makes you stop mid-conversation to listen.
We ended the night back at the house with a round of Catch Phrase and a few competitive (and hilarious) games of Cards Against Humanity.
Morning Adventures on Our South Haven Girls Getaway
Saturday morning was my turn to make breakfast, so I pulled out my go-to: a sausage bread roll. We needed something hearty before heading to South Haven’s farmers market, and wow, it’s a good one.
Rows of colorful produce, baskets of just-picked berries, local honey, homemade baked goods, and even a coffee truck lined the market. Live music played in the background, and the atmosphere felt like the definition of summer in Michigan. We couldn’t resist taking a group photo in front of the fruit and veggie mural wall, a perfect stop for anyone following a girls weekend itinerary South Haven Michigan.
Relaxation and Dining on a South Haven Weekend with Friends
In the early afternoon, we had an appointment at the Salt & Soul Salt Cave for some halotherapy. If you’ve never tried it, halotherapy is said to improve mental health, promote relaxation, and support overall well-being. We settled into the serene salt-filled room with lattes and snacks, breathing in the salt air and letting the calm set in. It was the perfect mid-trip pause.
Afterward, we grabbed a casual lunch at Captain Lou’s, a lively spot right on the water. The sunshine, lake breeze, and views of boats drifting by made it a quintessential summer dining experience. We popped into a few antique shops after lunch before heading back to the house for a little downtime.
Sunset Strolls and Dinner on Our Girls Trip to South Haven
Dinner that night was at Clementine’s, a local favorite that doesn’t take reservations. When we put our name in, we were 59th on the list — yes, 59th! Instead of standing around waiting, we made the most of the time and walked up to the lighthouse to watch boats come in. This lighthouse stop is a must if you’re following any girls weekend itinerary South Haven Michigan in the summer.
We still had time to kill, so we went back to the Airbnb, poured glasses of bubbly, and snacked on Laura’s homemade pizza rolls on the back patio under the string lights until our table was ready. Clementine’s was worth the wait. Housed in a former bank building, the space still has its stunning woodwork and tin ceilings, giving it a warm, historic feel.
We wrapped up the night with face masks that Kathrine brought and a soak in the hot tub while playing a few rounds of “Would You Rather.” Let’s say the questions got funnier as the night went on.
Wrapping Up Our South Haven Michigan Girls Trip
Sunday morning was Kathrine’s turn to make breakfast, and she served up the most delicious French toast casserole. After packing up and saying our goodbyes, we each headed back home, recharged and ready to jump back into the week.
Why You Should Plan a Girls Weekend in South Haven Mi
It’s easy to think of a weekend away as a luxury, but I’ve learned that trips like this are more of a necessity. Taking a few days to slow down, laugh until your cheeks hurt, try new things, and enjoy unhurried meals does more for my energy than almost anything else.
South Haven was the perfect backdrop for our girls’ trip; walkable, scenic, filled with great food and charming shops. The mix of planned activities and spontaneous moments made it feel effortless. And while the shopping, food, and sights were wonderful, it’s the conversations and the inside jokes that I’ll remember most.
Other posts you might like:
Girls Weekend Getaway Planning Tips
Girls Weekend Trip to Saugatuk MI
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